Adolescence writer suggests social media ban for kids

Jack Thorne, a talented writer from Bristol, has co-created a gripping Netflix series called Adolescence, which has quickly gained popularity among viewers. The show revolves around a 13-year-old boy named Jamie, who finds himself in a troubling situation after being accused of murdering a girl at his school. Thorne, along with actor Stephen Graham, has crafted a narrative that delves into serious themes such as bullying, the impact of incel culture, and the challenges of navigating social media as a young person. In light of the issues presented in the series, Thorne has made a bold suggestion: he believes that children should be banned from using social media to protect them from harmful ideas that can be found online. He stated, 'We do believe perhaps the answer to this is in parliament and legislating – and taking kids away from their phones in school and taking kids away from social media altogether. ' This statement highlights his concern for the well-being of young people and the potential dangers that social media can pose. Thorne emphasizes the importance of understanding the mindset of a character like Jamie, who feels isolated and believes that toxic ideas he encounters online might provide solutions to his pain. He reflects on his own experiences as a child, saying, 'If I'm 13 and I feel alone and isolated and unattractive. these things then sound like the answer to my pain. ' This personal connection to the character adds depth to the narrative and underscores the need for open discussions between parents and their children about the content they encounter online. The four-part series has become a global sensation, quickly becoming the most-watched show on Netflix shortly after its release. It effectively illustrates how damaging messages from misogynistic influencers on social media can negatively affect the minds of teenage boys. Thorne hopes that parents will take the time to watch the series with their children, as it provides an opportunity to engage in conversations about the difficult themes presented. He believes that addressing these issues is crucial for helping young people navigate the complexities of social media and the messages they receive. In addition to Thorne's insights, former England football manager Sir Gareth Southgate has also spoken out about the need for more support for young men as they navigate their identities and the challenges of modern culture. He pointed out that many young men spend excessive amounts of time online searching for direction, which can lead them to unhealthy alternatives such as gaming, gambling, and pornography. Southgate's remarks highlight the importance of providing positive role models for young people, as he noted, 'This void is filled by a new kind of role model who do not have their best interest at heart. Their sole drive is for their own gain. ' Dr. Nathan Eisenstadt, a senior researcher at the University of Bristol, has dedicated his work to teaching young people how to intervene in situations that could lead to sexual assault. He emphasizes that serious issues do not arise out of nowhere; rather, they often stem from a series of smaller, concerning behaviors. Eisenstadt stated, 'A murder doesn't just happen. A person will have done a series of low-level behaviours. Maybe that's comments which reveal their attitude about women. ' This perspective reinforces the idea that early intervention and awareness are essential in preventing harmful actions. Martin Bisp, the CEO of Empire Fighting Chance, a boxing club in Bristol, also recognizes the importance of providing support for young people. He noted that many young people have a strong desire to express themselves and often turn to the internet for that outlet. However, he pointed out that the reduction of services available for young people has led them to seek comfort in online spaces that may not be healthy. Bisp believes that mentoring should be meaningful and that it is crucial to challenge harmful views when they arise. In conclusion, the series Adolescence serves as a powerful tool for sparking important conversations about the impact of social media, the feelings of isolation that many young people experience, and the need for support in navigating these challenges. Jack Thorne and others are committed to ensuring that young people receive the guidance they need to make sense of the complex world they live in.